Does your loved one use tobacco? It can be a touchy and difficult subject to talk about. Sometimes, a well-timed word or event can get the ball rolling. The following suggestions can help.
1. Talk about it. Go ahead. Say, “I”m worried about your coughing. I love you and I want you to be healthy.”
2. Explain the dangers of secondhand on others, especially children and pets. Ask them to light up outside.
3. Remind them of how well they did during their last quit attempt. Tell them that it usually takes more than one try to make it stick.
4. Leave mints on their pillow with a note that says, “Smoking stinks.”
5. Keep track of illnesses and show them your records the next time they get sick.
6. Buy whitening toothpaste.
7. Offer gum when you see them smoke.
8. Include a card in their lunch, reminding them of how much you care and are worried.
9. Make a joke to start a conversation about quitting.
Example: “The tobacco industry reports that it provides jobs for 57,000 Americans.
This does not include physicians, X-ray technicians, nurses, hospital employees, firefighters, dry cleaners, respiratory specialists, pharmacists, morticians, and gravediggers.”
10. Calculate the amount of money they spend on cigarettes. Make a list of other ways the money could be used.
11. Make a Top 10 Wish List of the things you want this year. Start with “See you quit smoking.”
12. Finally, when you or your loved one is ready, visit Penn State Extension in Pike County, 514 Broad Street, Milford or call (570) 296-3400, for counseling, support, and nicotine replacement. This program is free, thanks to a grant from Tobacco Free Northeast PA Burn Prevention Network, funded by the PA Department of Health.